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Description
Hexalectris Spicata, commonly known as the Crested Coralroot or Spiked Crested Coralroot, is a native orchid species found in North America. It is a saprophytic plant that does not produce chlorophyll and relies on other plants for nutrition. The plant grows up to 20 inches tall and has a single stem with 5-20 flowers. The flowers are pink or purple with white stripes and have a distinct crest on the lip.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Orchidaceae |
| Genus | Hexalectris |
Appearance
The Crested Coralroot has a single stem with 5-20 flowers that are pink or purple with white stripes. The flowers have a distinct crest on the lip and bloom from May to July. The stem has 4-10 bracts that are reddish-brown or blackish-purple. The leaves are absent, and the plant relies on other plants for nutrition.
Care Guide
The Crested Coralroot is a saprophytic plant that does not produce chlorophyll and relies on other plants for nutrition. It is best to avoid transplanting the plant as it can damage the roots. Here are some care tips:
- Water: The plant does not require regular watering but can be misted occasionally.
- Fertilization: The plant does not require fertilization.
- Soil: The plant grows in humus-rich soil and prefers well-draining soil.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers filtered sunlight and should be protected from direct sunlight.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant grows in hardiness zones 5a-8b.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Crested Coralroot is not known to have any common pests or diseases.
Habitat
The Crested Coralroot is found in forests, woodlands, and prairies in North America. It prefers well-draining soil and filtered sunlight. The plant is often found growing near other orchid species.
Question and Answer
Q: Does the Crested Coralroot require fertilization?
A: No, the plant does not require fertilization.
Q: Can the Crested Coralroot be transplanted?
A: It is best to avoid transplanting the plant as it can damage the roots.
Q: What is the blooming time of the Crested Coralroot?
A: The plant blooms from May to July.
Q: What type of soil does the Crested Coralroot prefer?
A: The plant grows in humus-rich soil and prefers well-draining soil.
Related Plants
- Hexalectris arizonica
- Hexalectris colemanii
- Hexalectris nitida
- Hexalectris revoluta
References
- “Hexalectris spicata.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=286308.
- “Hexalectris spicata.” Natural Resources Conservation Service, plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=HESP.
